How to Check the Hydraulic Fluid Levels in a Car Jack
Hydraulic jacks are manufactured in many different sizes to accommodate lifting everything from a compact car to a large truck or trailer. No matter what the lifting capacity of the jack is, all hydraulic jacks operate on the same principal. When the jack handle is pumped, hydraulic fluid is forced into the cylinder, pushing the piston upwards, which raises your car. If the fluid is low, air may have entered the system, which affects the performance of the jack.
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Instructions
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1
Place the jack in an upright position. Insert the notched end of the jack handle onto the release valve at the base of the jack and turn it in a counterclockwise direction.
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2
Use the heal of your hand to push down on the top of the piston until it is fully retracted into the cylinder.
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3
Locate the oil filler plug on the jack cylinder. Remove a rubber filler plug by prying it out with a flat blade screwdriver. Remove a metal plug by twisting it out with a wrench.
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4
Peer into the hole where the plug was removed to check the fluid, as the hydraulic fluid level should come up to the bottom of the hole.
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5
Replace the rubber oil filler plug by pushing it back in until it is fully seated. Thread metal plugs back in until tight. Wipe up any spilled oil from the exterior of the cylinder with a rag.
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Tips & Warnings
For good jack performance, change the hydraulic fluid in the jack once a year. Remove the filler plug as described in the above procedure. Lay the jack over on its side and pour the hydraulic fluid from the filler hole into a drain pan. Sit the jack upright and pour fresh fluid into the opening until the level comes up to the bottom of the hole. Replace the filler plug and wipe up any spilled oil.
